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Sunday, August 25, 2013

RICHARD DUNNE BACK IN IRELAND SQUAD

Republic of
Ireland defender Richard Dunne has returned to the squad for the World Cup
qualifiers

against Sweden and Austria next month. The QPR centre-back, 33, has regained full fitness after missing all of last
season because of a groin injury. Anthony Pilkington also missed the scoreless draw with Wales but the uncapped
Norwich midfielder is included after recovering from a knee injury. However, there continues to be no place for Wolves striker Kevin Doyle.

Republic of Ireland's remaining Group C fixtures

6 Sept - Sweden (h)

10 Sept - Austria (a)

11 Oct - Germany (a)

15 Oct - Kazakhstan (h)

The Republic take on Sweden in Dublin on 6 September
before a meeting with Austria four days later in Vienna.

Giovanni Trapattoni's team lie fourth in Group C but only trail Austria and
Sweden on goal difference, with second place likely to be enough for a play-off
spot. "We have reached the most important part of our qualifying campaign," said
the Republic boss on Sunday. "The team performed very well against both Sweden and Austria back in March.
We will look to emulate both performances, and build towards producing two
positive results. "Sweden and Austria are two very strong teams, and the qualifying table
proves this. "However, I believe these players have the mentality, attitude and composure
to work together and get the points we need in order to qualify. "We will prepare for both games next week and focus on the task facing us."
Republic of Ireland squad: Forde, Westwood, Randolph,
O'Shea, O'Brien, St Ledger, Wilson, Coleman, Kelly, O'Dea, Clark, Dunne,
McShane, Whelan, McCarthy, Green, Hendrick, McGeady, Pilkington, McClean, Brady,
Meyler, Hoolahan, Long, Keane, Sammon, Walters, Madden, Cox.